Ground Beef Ramen Skillet

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided for cooking and tossing noodles
• 1/2 large white onion, thinly sliced for a sweet, subtle flavor
• 3 cloves garlic, minced, to add a rich aroma
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated for a warm, spicy note
• 1 lb lean ground beef, provides the main protein source
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced thinly for a sweet, crisp texture
• 2 cups broccoli florets, diced for added crunch and nutrition
• 3/4 cup carrots, cut into matchsticks for color and sweetness
• 3 packages instant ramen noodles, noodles only, seasoning packets discarded

For the Sauce:

• 2 teaspoons cornstarch, to thicken the sauce
• 3 tablespoons light soy sauce, for umami flavor
• 1/3 cup chicken broth, to add depth to the sauce
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil, for a nutty flavor
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, to balance the savory with a hint of sweetness
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, for a touch of acidity
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, for a complex, sweet and salty taste
• 2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce, adjust to taste for heat
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, for seasoning

For Serving:

• Green onion, minced for a fresh, sharp finish
• Sesame seeds, for a nutty crunch

Preparation:

1. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients—cornstarch, soy sauce, chicken broth, sesame oil, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, Sriracha, and black pepper. Ensure it is well mixed to prevent clumps. Set aside for later.

1. Cook the Aromatics:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions, cooking them until they are soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
• Reduce heat to medium, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and stir for about 15 seconds until fragrant. Push the mixture to the side of the skillet.

1. Brown the Ground Beef:

• Increase heat to high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Allow it to sit undisturbed for about 30 seconds, then start breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Continue cooking until the beef is thoroughly browned and no longer pink.

1. Cook the Ramen Noodles:

• While the beef is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook them for approximately 1 1/2 minutes less than the package directions to keep them al dente. Drain and toss the noodles with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

1. Cook the Vegetables:

• Return the skillet heat to medium-high and add the sliced bell pepper, diced broccoli, and matchstick carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 3-4 minutes.

1. Combine and Finish Cooking:

• Give the sauce a quick stir and pour it over the vegetables in the skillet. Add the pre-cooked ramen noodles. Toss everything together using tongs, ensuring the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce. Cook until the sauce has thickened, about 2-4 minutes.

1. Serve:

• To serve, transfer the skillet contents to a serving dish or plates. Sprinkle minced green onion and sesame seeds over the top for added flavor and presentation.

Tips:

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of Sriracha sauce according to your taste preferences for heat.
• Customize Vegetables: This recipe is flexible; you can add or substitute vegetables such as snap peas, spinach, or mushrooms based on what’s available or to suit your tastes.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty Ground Beef Ramen Skillet!